Does a peach espalier require the same training as, for example, an apple espalier?
What is the best shape for the peach espalier?
Started a cordon and plan on having 3 pair of branches. Would this be OK?
I have heard that peach is very hard to make into an espalier, I am not sure why though? I’ll be interested to see what others have to say.
it should be doable. I think the main hindrance is more of a disease/pest issue or longevity issue. Even with relatively long-lived pears and apples, there aren’t many specimens that manage to attain a hardened/‘old-look’ branching. The key is to train stems(while spindly) into the desired stance, but the main challenge is to ensure the longevity of such branches so that ultimately they attain stiffness and heft(to look established and seasoned). The critical aspect of espalier aesthetics.
keeping the stems safe from pests and diseases for many years is the only way of thickening such stems so that they finally lose the juvenile, viny appearance(which for many years is nothing more than spindly stems twirled or appended to a clothesline).
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Peaches only fruit from last year’s wood. I think that is the primary impediment to espalier. I think non-spurring fruits do not respond as well.
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